Edgewood University

Edgewood offers 40+ undergraduate majors and 25 graduate programs, with nursing, business, and education standing out as particularly strong ([13], [15]). The student-faculty ratio is 13:1, and small class sizes are the norm—a hallmark of the university’s emphasis on personalized learning ([12], [17]). The curriculum blends liberal arts with professional preparation, anchored by its Dominican heritage’s focus on ethics and community engagement ([16]). While not a research powerhouse, Edgewood prides itself on faculty who 'inspire curiosity' through close mentorship, including in graduate seminars and hybrid/online formats ([22]). Popular majors include psychology, biology, and social work, reflecting the school’s service-oriented ethos ([17]).

Life at Edgewood revolves around its serene, lakeside campus (on Lake Wingra) in Madison’s residential Dudgeon-Monroe neighborhood—a setting the Princeton Review calls 'beautiful' ([21]). The vibe is 'small and welcoming,' with intramural sports (like cross-country and lacrosse) and student clubs providing low-key social outlets ([19]). Madison’s cultural perks—farmers’ markets, music venues, and the UW-Madison scene—are just minutes away, but the campus itself feels insulated, with a focus on community-building ([20]). Housing is limited, so many upperclassmen live off-campus in Madison’s affordable neighborhoods. The university leans into its Dominican roots with service opportunities, including partnerships with local nonprofits ([18]).

Edgewood’s 4-year graduation rate is 53.4%, rising to 67% at 6 years—placing it in the top 30% nationally for retention ([23], [25]). Recent alumni report average early-career salaries of $59,728, though this varies widely by major (e.g., art therapy graduates have a 73% placement rate) ([23], [27]). Notably, 78.3% of degrees awarded in 2024 went to women, reflecting the school’s strength in fields like nursing and education ([24]). While not a feeder to elite grad programs, Edgewood emphasizes career-ready skills, with robust internship ties to Madison’s healthcare and nonprofit sectors ([26]).

Edgewood’s sticker price is typical for a private college, but 100% of first-year students receive grants or scholarships, bringing the average net cost down to $26,692 ([29], [33]). Merit aid?Merit aidScholarship money awarded for achievements like grades, talents, or test scores — not based on your family's financial need. is plentiful, with awards often tied to GPA (averaging $19,647 per recipient) ([30], [33]). The university actively promotes its Net Price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator to demystify costs, and its financial aid office emphasizes packaging federal, state, and institutional aid ([31]). Still, students should note that the low yield rate means Edgewood may sweeten offers for competitive applicants ([11], [34]).

Edgewood’s appeal lies in its Goldilocks balance: a tiny campus (1,016 undergrads) in a major college town, where students get face time with professors but can tap into Madison’s energy. Its Dominican identity—emphasizing community service and ethical leadership—shapes campus culture without feeling dogmatic. While not selective, it punches above its weight in healthcare and education placements, thanks to strong local partnerships. For students who’d feel lost at UW-Madison, Edgewood offers Big Ten-adjacent perks with a cozy, mentorship-driven alternative.